He faces 12 counts of failing to disclose to auditors Ernst & Young the true value of loans worth at least €139 million given to him or people connected to him, by Irish Nationwide Building Society from 2002 to 2007 while he was an officer of the bank.

On a hearing date in March the court was told the trial can likely not take place until late 2014. This is to allow a period of ‘fade’ regarding expected media coverage of the accused’s trial in early 2014 on separate matters.

Mr Fitzpatrick was not present at today’s short hearing after being excused from attendance on a previous date.